Author: Jim O Brien/CEO

CEO and expert in transport and Mobile tech. A fan 20 years, mobile consultant, Nokia Mobile expert, Former Nokia/Microsoft VIP,Multiple forum tech supporter with worldwide top ranking,Working in the background on mobile technology, Weekly radio show, Featured on the RTE consumer show, Cavan TV and on TRT WORLD. Award winning Technology reviewer and blogger. Security and logisitcs Professional.

VR Drop and Share virtual reality is now made accessible for all. #VirtualReality

VR DROP AND SHARE launches today. This is the first free mobile platform that allows anyone to create and share their own social virtual reality experiences. Through VR DROP AND SHARE virtual reality is now made accessible, shareable and simple for everyone.

 

 

The VR DROP AND SHARE team believes that virtual reality should be simple for everyone. Harnessing the benefits of social VR on Android smartphones (iOS out soon) VR DROP AND SHARE allows anyone to be in the same virtual space as their audience, pupils, customers, family or friends. VR DROP AND SHARE uses 360 degree photos to create these shared virtual spaces, called “VR Drops”. With the addition of voice over IP users can bring their experience to life, relive memories or explain content to anyone, anywhere in the world. VR DROP AND SHARE requires nothing more powerful than a smartphone to create, share and view this content, the same smartphone already owned by most people.

 

 

VR DROP AND SHARE is the ideal tool for use in multiple markets. Estate agents can show prospective buyers a property without anyone having to leave their home or office. It is brilliant for someone to conduct remote viewings of possible university’s, wedding venues, and sports arenas or even to research their next potential holiday destination. Advertising and marketing campaigns can integrate VR to engage and evoke powerful emotions from consumers. Journalists can bring stories to life, and teachers can captivate students within the classroom. Geographically remote friends and family can relive special moments such as birthdays and celebrations.

 

 

 

 

Available for free on Android (iOS out soon), users can easily and quickly create and view their own VR experience using VR DROP AND SHARE. Just drop multiple 360° pictures into a project to create an immersive VR photo album. From there the creator can invite friends, family, students or customers to view the “VR Drop” or can view the “VR Drop” in solo mode. Sharing with others is simple by posting a link on social media, email, website or SMS. At the click of a button your VR content has the ability to be viral, without the need for other users to log in or sign up, they just enjoy your experience.

 

The presenter controls the experience for everyone, when they move to the next 360 photo everyone moves too. Using head tracking sensors, those in the experience are able to see where each viewer is looking, increasing the levels of engagement within the group. There is not even any need for a VR headset, for those that don’t like headsets or don’t own one, they can use their phone as a window into the newly created world.

 

 

“Feedback from VR DROP AND SHARE testing groups and partners has been very positive. Taking this information on board V2 is in the works bringing audio and text descriptions to enable more immersive experience.” said Jack Maddalena, Sales & Community Manager. “We also have been extremely careful to ensure users enjoy the immersive experience without feeling disorientated or suffering motion sickness that can occur when using other applications.”

 

Google play store, download link: https://goo.gl/5qG45w

iOS waiting list: http://eepurl.com/cJPvMf

 

VR DROP AND SHARE is developed by VRCRAFTWORKS. VRCraftworks has been building mobile VR apps for business since 2013 and was behind Orbulus “top 10 VR apps out there for the mobile market”. We have delivered apps on both the Google and Apple platforms for companies in the UK, USA, South Korea and Taiwan. Contact Jack Maddalena

(44) +7904031405 jack.m@vrcraftworks.c

Jabra introduces a new easy-to-use Bluetooth headset to the UK market, the #Jabra Talk 2

Jabra introduces a new easy-to-use Bluetooth headset to the UK market, the Jabra Talk 2. With this new product, Jabra aims to meet the needs of those who make and take calls-on-the-go. Stay tuned for our review in the coming days..

 

Jabra, the leading manufacturer of innovative sound solutions, introduces a new easy-to-use Bluetooth® headset to the UK market, Jabra Talk 2. This marks the next generation of Jabra Talk – one of the  leading and best-selling headsets from Jabra. With this, Jabra aims to meet the needs of those who make and take calls-on-the-go. For business workers, research* shows 65% require mobile connectivity to do their jobs.

 

The state-of-the-art mono headset, builds on the success of Jabra Talk and has been developed using Jabra’s unique heritage and unrivalled R&D expertise within optimal solutions for mobile calls. It ensures users never miss another conversation again and offers a solution for those who require clear and reliable hands-free calling, on-the-go.

 

 

HD voice for clearer conversation

Every call made or received via Jabra Talk 2, comes through in excellent HD quality. A crisp, clear sound, with no disruptions – which delivers a better call experience for users – anywhere, anytime.

 

The headset also benefits from a useful noise filtering mic, which cancels out annoying background sounds. This improves call clarity and ensures the other party hears only your voice, which makes it suited for conference calls and conversations. What’s more, it is compatible with any Bluetooth enabled device.

 

Flexible eargels for maximum comfort

No matter how often you make or receive calls, Jabra Talk 2 – because of its soft and flexible eargels – provides a secure, comfortable fit for everyday use. And with two differently sized eargels available, you can find a soft and flexible fit that is tailored to you. In addition to comfort, the secure wearing style allows for improved sound-quality and a greater call experience.

 

 

Up to 9 hours battery lets you talk all day

Helping to improve productivity and call efficiency – Jabra Talk 2 permits all day use when in the car or on-the-go. Its dependable battery capabilities allows up to 9 hours of talk/music time on a single charge and up to 9 days standby time. Plus, its intelligent voice guidance functionality, lets you know when it’s time to recharge.

 

Intuitive design for the Bluetooth user

The well-engineered headset has been designed with first time Bluetooth® mono users in mind. It is simple but effective functionalities present an on/off slide control – to conserve battery life and power down, a dedicated battery symbol to inform you when you need to recharge, and a Bluetooth™ icon to confirm your connection. In addition, the handset automatically adjusts the volume to adapt to your environment and allows you to wirelessly stream multimedia.

 

 

Its Multiuse™ feature can easily connect to more than one device at the same time. When one of them rings, the Jabra Talk 2 will automatically stream the right call when you answer. If a new call comes through on the other phone, you’ll get an alert and the option to pick it up.

 

Jabra Assist

Get more from your Jabra Talk 2 by using the smartphone app, Jabra Assist. Available to download on iOS and Android, it comes loaded with extra features and boasts setup guidance which offers step-by-step instructions on the pairing process. It helps you keep track of the remaining talk time left on your device too, by providing a useful, visual indicator.

 

 

 

Using the app also means you’ll never lose your headset again. With Find My Jabra, every time your headset is used, its position is geo tagged. So, if you misplace it, you can use the handy map on your smartphone to locate it more quickly. You could even activate your headset to make a sound, making it easier to find.

 

Features and Specifications

  • Bluetooth® version 4.0
  • HD Voice for clearer conversations
  • Secure and comfortable fit with flexible eargels
  • Up to nine hours battery time and nine days standby time
  • Voice Guidance
  • Access to Siri® and Google Now™
  • Intuitive usability with on/off button and dedicated battery / Bluetooth® symbols
  • Wireless stereo sound (A2DP)
  • BT Class 2
  • Setup guidance and Find My Jabra features with Jabra Assist app

 

Pricing and availability:

Jabra Talk 2 will be available in selected retailers, at an RRP £29.99. learn more via www.jabra.com/talk2

The Worlds First Solar Power Wallet, from @lucca_bozzi #Solar #RFID #Kickstarter

Get an extra 10 hours of talk time or just recharge those wireless headphones with the built-in battery. RFID protected.

 

The Lucca Bozzi Solar Wallet is a modern interpretation of the classic bi-fold wallet, bettering your everyday by providing +10 extra hours of charge when you need it most.

 
Fused with cutting-edge technology, Solar Wallet integrates intelligent circuitry, charging cables and a renewable energy source, while maintaining the traditional beauty of an Italian wallet.
 
In a time where we rely on our tech more every day, Lucca Bozzi has created a wallet that gives you the power to charge your devices at your own free will.
 
Solar Wallet is a hybrid of intelligent technology and elegant design that easily becomes the centerpiece of your everyday carry.
 
Lucca Bozzi’s focus was to create a beautiful, timeless design while working with the top engineers to perfect a piece the majority of the world carries daily.
Does this look like something you could be interested in? Head over to http://www.luccabozzi.com/ for more and we will be talking more about it soon..
You can see the project now on Kickstarter…

#Blink – The UK’s most affordable smart home security and alert system. #home #Tech 

Blink video security system now available in the UK via amazon.co.uk and we will have our review in the coming days on it…

 

Blink, the affordable, wire-free, home security and HD video monitoring system, announces that it is now available in the UK.

Blink is a battery-powered home security and HD video monitoring system that’s simple to set up and use, giving peace of mind to people who worry about the security of their property while away. Blink provides a watchful eye and one-click connection to the home through the free Blink Home Monitor app for iOS and Android devices.

 

 

As opposed to traditional security systems which add video as an afterthought and may have ugly wires which require professional installation, Blink offers quick and simple do-it-yourself installation, as well as a stylish, totally wireless, and innovative design including HD video technology with motion and temperature sensors.  When Blink detects motion, it immediately sends a push notification alert and HD quality video to the user’s smartphone so that they may instantly see who is at the door or wandering around their home. The system is entirely accessible via the Blink App, giving users the flexibility to arm/disarm, live stream video, and check status remotely, anytime and from anywhere.

 

 

 

Peter Besen, CEO of Blink comments: “We’re absolutely thrilled to bring Blink to the UK. We already have UK users who have bought the product from the USA. The beauty of Blink is that it is totally wireless and the battery life is now over two years.”

 

 

Blink has unprecedented image quality, battery life (two years on 2 x AA lithium batteries), aggressive price point (systems start at £129.99, far less expensive than competitive systems) and simplicity (do-it-yourself set up in minutes). Its motion-activated video alerts and live view options deliver instant peace of mind from any location directly through the Blink Home Monitor app, making it the perfect solution for homeowners, renters, small business owners, second home owners and many more.

Pricing 

1 cam £129.99

2 cam £199.99

3 cam £269.99

5 cam £399.99

Add on cam £99.99

#EatMessage turns players faces into controllers as they catch and dodge emojis sent by their friends

Futurefly (www.futurefly.net), the Helsinki-based developers and creators of Rawr Messenger, has launched EatMessage (www.eatmessage.com), the first ever iMessage selfie-based game which allows users to challenge their friends to eat or dodge emojis –

 

EatMessage chomps at Snapchat’s heels: 

 

  • EatMessage uniquely turns players’ faces into controllers as they catch and dodge emojis sent by their friends

 

  • Accessible within the iMessage App Store menu, the free-to-use EatMessage lets users select a combination of food emojis (such as apples, doughnuts, and pizza) and inedible emojis (including spanners, light bulbs, and rainbows) to be ‘thrown’ in-app at their friend. The user sends an EatMessage challenge to their friend whose front facing camera transplants them into an augmented reality world in which they use their mouth to catch edible food emojis, and their face to dodge other, less desirable items.

 

 

  • Knowing what to eat and what to dodge is crucial, with players having to think on their feet and react quickly to a wide variety of emojis being virtually flung in their direction

 

  • After all of the items have been successfully (or unsuccessfully) been caught or avoided, a GIF of the player, as well as a selfie complete with an amusing filter and accompanying movie quote, are sent to the other friend, making EatMessage the easiest and cheekiest way to ask for a selfie

 

 

Check out the EatMessage on the App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/dk/app/eatmessage-selfie-game/id1184800021?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo%3D2

Loot Crate is a fan-commerce product box.. #Tech #Gaming #Gadgets #LootCrate

Loot Crate is a fan-commerce product box and essentially a subscription based service which has just launched in Europe. Loot Crate is the first of its kind, offering a curated collection of items from the best pop culture franchises delivered to your door every month. Loot ranges from gaming, collectables, apparel, tech gadgets, art, and other epic gear. 

 

 

 

A typical crate includes 5-7 items, with fan products ranging from Marvel, Disney, Lucas Entertainment, DC Entertainment, WWE, Sanrio, the Halo franchise, and the Gears of War franchise. Crates vary from more general ‘core’ items to specific genres such as gaming and anime.

 

 

 

 

Loot Crate Key Facts:

  • Has shipped 10 million crates since 2012
  • Over 650K subscribers in 35 countries
  • Inc Magazine’s fastest growing private company in 2016
  • US based and expanding its operations with a new UK HQ servicing customers in UK + EU
  • Main demographic is 18-34 males
  • 20 percent of customers are international/ outside of the US
  • 30 percent of subscribers are female
  • Half a million fans watch the Loot Crate Facebook Live videos each month
  • Loot Crate has 2.5 million Facebook followers and 594,000 Twitter followers

 

 

To find out more, visit https://www.lootcrate.com or @LootCrate on twitter..

#Blackboard Ranked First in Framework to Provide Virtual Learning Environment Solutions in Scotland

Institutions able to partner with Blackboard without additional tender process.. 

Blackboard Inc. today announced that it was awarded the framework contract for the provision of Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) solutions and services to Scottish institutions by APUC (Advanced Procurement for Universities and Colleges) Limited, the procurement centre of expertise for all Scotland universities and colleges. Moreover, Blackboard has obtained a number one ranking, which enables all APUC member institutions to partner directly with Blackboard without an additional tender process.

The decision was taken after a thorough review of several criteria including Core VLE functionality and testing, support and maintenance, innovation and customer leverage. 

“We are honoured that Blackboard has been ranked first in the framework for provisioning VLE solutions in Scotland,” said Lee Blakemore, President of Blackboard International. “We are already working with many institutions in the region, and we are looking forward to helping even more students, teachers and staff achieve their learning goals.” 

#YubiKey – The future of cybersecurity. #Phishing #Scams #Cybercrime

Did you know that phishing scams are the leading cause of cybercrime?

A report by tech security company PhishMe last year found a staggering 91 per cent of all cyberattacks in 2016 were triggered by a phishing email.

And the number of these bogus email attacks aimed at duping recipients into divulging personal or confidential information such as passwords or bank account details is rising at an alarming rate.

The Anti-Phishing Working Group (AWPG) said there were more than 1.2 million reported phishing attacks last year, a whopping 65 per cent rise compared to 2015, while telecoms firm Verizon’s 2016 Data Breach Investigations Report found 30 per cent of phishing emails were opened by recipients.

 

 

To combat this growing concern, tech giants such as Google, Facebook and Salesforce have introduced a new security device to their employees – and now it is available to billions of their users.

 

Introducing Yubico’s YubiKey

The YubiKey security key by Yubico eradicates the dangers of phishing attacks by adding an extra layer of login security to a range of leading websites such as Google, Facebook, YouTube, Dropbox, Salesforce and many more.

By employing two-factor authentication (2FA), the hack-proof USB stick works by requiring users to activate it after inputting a username and password to gain access to personal accounts. Without a password AND a YubiKey, access is denied, preventing anyone who does not have both from logging in.

 

Unlike two-step verification, which involves sending a temporary login code to a user’s mobile phone via text, the waterproof YubiKey, which is already used in 160 countries, removes the need for transmissions that can easily be intercepted by tech-savvy cybercriminals.

Having been adopted by staff at multinational corporations such as Facebook and Google, the compact YubiKey, which weighs just 3g and offers options for both computer system and smartphone protection, is now available to UK consumers from just £17.50.

For more information visit www.yubico.com

We will have a review soon…

#Snatch – The app that turns real life into a fast paced reality game. #AR #Gaming #UK

British AR gaming experience Snatches the crown from Pokemon Go!

  • Thousands of Brits are taking to ‘Snatch’ to steal and snatch real prizes from the streets and from each other – the craze has overtaken Pokemon Go for daily downloads in the App Store

 

 

Though Brits are still going crazy for Pokemon Go, with many chasing down the 80 new monsters available in their recent update, thousands of Brits are also going crazy for a new augmented reality (AR) gaming experience. Snatch, the game that rewards player’s virtual efforts with real prizes, has overtaken Pokemon Go in the UK App Store and now sits at number one in the adventure chart, as well as being in the top 20 for all apps and top 10 for all games – all within the first month of its launch.

 

Snatch combines augmented reality with geo-location technology and turns the world around players into a massive, virtual treasure hunt. Instead of hunting down virtual monsters, players hunt down virtual parcels that transform into real prizes. This month UK players have already walked away with prizes including: a share of £250,000, clothing for a year from high street brands like TopShop and TopMan, free food from JustEat, Nando’s and Pizza Hut Delivery among others.

 

 

The game has £15m worth of prizes ready to be won, with new rewards being added on a weekly basis. The game has landed 195,000 players one month into launch, with the average player spending more than an hour in-game every day.

 

The treasure hunt hasn’t just been a success with gamers – Unilever Ventures, the investment arm of Unilever, recently invested a significant sum into the start-up – a rarity for any company pre-series A funding. Snatch is also set to introduce the product to the US market in the next few months, with an exclusive preview this month in Austin, Texas at music, film, and technology festival – SXSW.

CEO and Founder, Joe Martin comments: “I had worked on Snatch for two years before the launch – and I was confident it would be a success but the amount of players already snatching is amazing. To reach more than 195,000 players and to overtake Pokemon Go in the App Store in our first month is just incredible and I’m so happy people are really going snatch-crazy. We’ve already given away £250k in cash, as well as hundreds of other prizes and we are just getting started.

“Players can expect us to introduce new features, new prizes, and new ways of playing the game that will change the way people see augmented reality.”

 

Download Snatch for free on iOS and Android